The best hikes from bus stations around Santa Maria De Belém

It is very photogenic from the most diverse perspectives. The history of this extraordinary bridge already begins in the late 19th century, when the first considerations for a crossing of the Tagus arose. However, it only became more concrete in the 1950s: in 1953, the government commissioned a committee with the planning, which finally recommended the construction of a bridge from the south bank of Lisbon to Cristo Rei in 1958. Construction work began on November 5, 1962, under the leadership of a consortium of the American US Steel Company. After almost four years of intensive work – up to 3,000 workers were employed at times – the bridge was inaugurated on August 6, 1966, in a solemn state ceremony.

The Jerónimos Monastery, located in the Belém district, is a jewel of Manueline architecture and one of Lisbon's most visited monuments. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Built by order of King Manuel I to commemorate Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, its construction began in 1501–1502 on the site where Vasco da Gama and his crew prayed before setting sail. For centuries it was occupied by the Order of Saint Jerome, hence its name.

Built in 1940 for the World's Fair, it was in use

Book tickets online in advance and it's best to go during the week. Lisbon residents have free entry to the monastery on Sundays and public holidays. It gets quite crowded then. The visit is still worthwhile, though; the audio guide is highly recommended.

The Church of Santa Maria de Belém is the magnificent church of the Jerónimos Monastery and impresses with its richly decorated Manueline portals and delicate stone ornaments. Inside, you'll find high vaults, columns of light, and the tombs of famous seafarers and poets. It's the perfect place to briefly escape the hustle and bustle of Belém and soak up the atmosphere.

The Monument to the Discoveries in Lisbon pays homage to Portuguese navigators. It represents the Age of Discovery, with statues of historical figures such as Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama. It is shaped like a caravel, symbolizing sea voyages.

The 25th of April Bridge is a suspension bridge in Lisbon, Portugal, very similar to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. It crosses the Tagus River, connecting the capital to the city of Almada. Inaugurated in 1966 as the Salazar Bridge, it was renamed after the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, in commemoration of the end of the dictatorship. It is a vital structure that carries both vehicles and trains.

The 25 de Abril Bridge is a suspension bridge in Lisbon, Portugal, very similar to San Francisco's Golden Gate. It crosses the Tagus River, connecting the capital to the city of Almada. Inaugurated in 1966 as the Salazar Bridge, it was renamed after the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, in commemoration of the end of the dictatorship. It is a vital structure that carries both vehicles and trains.